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I want to let those of you interested in the proposed new ethics ordinance know how things went at the public hearing last Monday. Basically, I think the hearing went very well. There was a far more positive response from the City Council than indicated by the article in the Star Tribune. Public hearings are designed to bring out the people concretely affected by a proposed policy change, and hear their concerns. That happened, and the Task Force and Council are addressing those concerns, which were concerns about how the new code’s provisions apply to the 300-some City appointed members of various City boards and commissions. The hearing was continued, and so the public will have another opportunity to comment on the proposed new Code. The new hearing date is Monday, March 17th, as part of the Ways & Means/Budget Committee meeting. The meeting starts at 1:30, and we do not know yet if there will be a specific time assigned for the public hearing (we will keep you posted). This is where I ask for your help. If you would like to see the City council take this concrete step to restore trust in City government, please come and testify at the hearing, or let your Council Member know with an e-mail, call, or letter. |
